The Truth About 1000 Steps Beach: Landslide Updates, Hidden Caves, And The Myth Of The Name

One of Southern California’s most legendary and challenging beach descents, 1000 Steps Beach in Laguna Beach, remains an essential bucket-list destination, but visitors must be aware of its dynamic and sometimes hazardous conditions. As of December 15, 2025, the dramatic cliffside access has been subject to significant change, with recent landslides impacting the iconic staircase and reminding everyone of the constant battle between nature and the man-made path to this pristine stretch of sand.

This deep dive will cut through the misinformation and sensationalism to provide the most current and critical details for planning your visit, revealing the exact number of steps, the status of the path following recent repairs and natural events, and how to safely discover the beach’s hidden gems—the famous sea caves and concrete saltwater pools—that make the grueling trek worthwhile. The allure of this Orange County gem, nestled off the Pacific Coast Highway, is undeniable, but preparation is key to a rewarding experience.

The Great Misnomer: How Many Steps Are Really at 1000 Steps Beach?

The name "1000 Steps Beach" is a fantastic piece of local folklore and a powerful deterrent to the faint of heart, yet it is a complete misnomer. The intimidating moniker is a classic example of hyperbole, designed to emphasize the sheer difficulty of the climb back up from the sand.

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In reality, the number of steps is significantly lower, making the challenge far more manageable than the name suggests. The actual count varies slightly due to repairs and natural erosion, but the staircase typically consists of approximately 218 to 230 steps. This is still a formidable workout, equivalent to climbing a 10-to-15-story building, but it is a far cry from a thousand steps.

The entrance to the staircase is discreetly located at the intersection of the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and 9th Avenue in South Laguna. The beach itself is officially known as Tenth Street Beach, but the nickname has long since taken over. The initial descent is steep and narrow, carved into the dramatic coastal bluffs, offering tantalizing views of the exclusive, multi-million dollar homes perched above the shoreline.

Beyond the stairs, the beach stretches for about 400 yards, characterized by its pristine sand, dramatic cliffs, and powerful, crashing waves. The entire experience is a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of the Southern California coastline.

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Unlocking the Secrets: Sea Caves, Tunnels, and Saltwater Pools

What truly sets 1000 Steps Beach apart from other Laguna Beach destinations are the hidden geological and man-made features that can only be accessed under specific conditions. These spots offer a sense of adventure and discovery, but they demand respect for the ocean's power and the tide schedule.

The Iconic Sea Cave and Tunnel

The most famous feature is the large sea cave, or tunnel, located at the south end of the beach. This natural formation is a spectacular photo opportunity and a gateway to the beach's further secrets. However, accessing the cave is strictly a low-tide activity. When the tide is high, the cave floor is completely flooded, and the powerful waves can crash dangerously inside, making entry impossible and extremely perilous.

Crucial Safety Tip: Always check the tide chart before attempting to explore the sea cave. Never venture in if the tide is rising or if the water level is high. The slippery rocks near the entrance also pose a fall risk.

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The Concrete Saltwater Pools

South of the sea cave, past the natural rock formations, lies another hidden gem: a set of concrete saltwater pools. These are not natural tide pools, but man-made structures that fill with fresh ocean water during high tide, creating a tranquil, sheltered swimming area as the tide recedes. Finding these pools requires navigating through or around the sea cave, reinforcing the need for low-tide access.

These pools are a popular spot for sunbathing and a relatively calmer swimming experience compared to the open ocean at the main beach. Their remote location ensures a more private and exclusive atmosphere for those who make the effort to find them.

Critical Current Updates, Safety Warnings, and Access Entities

While the beauty of 1000 Steps Beach is timeless, its accessibility and safety profile are constantly evolving. Visitors must be aware of the latest conditions, especially concerning recent geological activity and the ever-present ocean hazards.

Recent Landslide Damage and Access Status

The most significant recent update involves a landslide that occurred along the cliff face leading to the beach. In recent years, a portion of the iconic staircase was wiped out, highlighting the vulnerability of the coastal access point. While repairs are often undertaken quickly, the risk of future landslides remains a serious threat to the beach's future access and stability.

Before visiting, it is highly recommended to check local Laguna Beach news sources or the city's official website for the current status of the staircase access. While the beach area itself may be open, portions directly beneath the landslide zone may be closed for safety until further notice.

Essential Safety Entities and Hazards

The dramatic beauty of this Southern California beach comes with serious risks that must be respected:

• Rip Currents: 1000 Steps Beach is notorious for hazardous rip currents, which are made worse by large surf. These powerful currents can quickly pull even strong swimmers out to sea. Always swim near other people and never turn your back on the ocean.
• No Lifeguard: Unlike some other Laguna Beach spots, this beach often lacks dedicated lifeguard services, placing the responsibility for safety entirely on the visitor.
• Tide Awareness: As mentioned, the sea cave and saltwater pools are strictly low-tide destinations. Getting trapped by a rising tide can be fatal.
• Parking: There is no dedicated parking lot. Street parking is available along the Pacific Coast Highway and nearby residential streets, but it is extremely limited and subject to strict parking enforcement. Be prepared to walk a significant distance to the 9th Avenue entrance.
• No Facilities: There are typically no public restrooms or showers (amenities) available at the base of the staircase or on the beach itself.

Topical Authority Entities for 1000 Steps Beach

To fully appreciate the context of this beach, it helps to understand the surrounding entities and geographical markers:

• Location: South Laguna Beach, Orange County, California.
• Main Access Point: Intersection of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and 9th Avenue.
• Official Name: Tenth Street Beach.
• Nearby Landmark: Victoria Beach (to the north).
• Geological Features: Coastal Bluffs, Sandstone Caves, Tide Pools.
• Historical Context: Past battles against privatization by local homeowners.
• Alternative Southern California Beach: A similarly named "Thousand Steps Beach" exists in Santa Barbara, known for its 157-step staircase.

In conclusion, 1000 Steps Beach remains one of the most rewarding and visually stunning destinations in Southern California. The challenging descent and ascent are a small price to pay for access to its pristine sand, dramatic cliffs, and the hidden wonders of the sea cave and saltwater pools. By respecting the ocean's power, checking the current access status following the landslide, and planning your visit around the low tide, you can ensure a safe and unforgettable adventure at this iconic, misnamed gem.